Chinese heavy equipment and energy technology giant SANY Group has broken new ground in Africa’s clean energy space with the launch of a 10MW solar power plant in Zimbabwe, marking a key milestone in the company’s renewable energy expansion on the continent.
The project, initiated in late June 2025, is SANY’s first photovoltaic (PV) venture in Zimbabwe and the first in Africa to adopt its innovative “EP+F” business model—a comprehensive approach that integrates Engineering, Procurement, and Financing into a single, tailored solution. Developed in partnership with a Chinese mining firm, the project is designed to remove financial barriers and make clean energy more accessible and sustainable across emerging markets.
Cutting-Edge Technology with Local Impact
The solar plant will feature SANY’s self-developed 710 high-efficiency PV modules, advanced inverters, and high-durability support brackets. With a projected annual output of 18 million kilowatt-hours (kWh), the plant is expected to be grid-connected by the end of 2025. Its clean energy output will significantly alleviate Zimbabwe’s power shortages, boost industrial productivity, and provide reliable electricity to local communities.
A Model for Replicable Growth
This project is the first international deployment of SANY Silicon Energy’s “EP+F” model and is being positioned as a scalable blueprint for renewable energy projects across developing regions. By embedding financial solutions into the procurement and engineering process, the model reduces upfront costs for customers and makes renewable energy projects more bankable.
Following the project’s initial success, the partnering mining firm has expressed interest in expanding collaboration with SANY into microgrids, electric trucks, and EV charging infrastructure, broadening the scope of clean energy integration.
Building on Regional Success
SANY’s footprint in African renewables extends beyond Zimbabwe. In late 2024, the company completed the Mining Microgrid Power Project in Zambia, the continent’s largest integrated “solar + storage + diesel” energy system. Completed in just four months, the first phase generates 16 million kWh annually and has slashed electricity costs for the customer by over RMB 20 million, accounting for nearly 30% of their production expenses.
Since then, SANY has signed three more microgrid projects in Zambia, reinforcing its leadership in Africa’s decentralized clean energy landscape.
23 Years of African Partnership
With more than two decades of presence in Africa, SANY has evolved from an equipment manufacturer to a long-term development partner focused on sustainability and local empowerment. The company now operates 15 subsidiaries and over 30 branches across the continent, with equipment deployed in 50+ countries and regions. Over 50% of SANY’s African workforce is locally recruited, creating 5,000+ jobs.
Looking Ahead
SANY’s growing portfolio of renewable energy solutions reflects its commitment to supporting Africa’s green transition. The company plans to deepen local supply chain integration, expand clean energy infrastructure, and continue driving inclusive economic development through investment, innovation, and technology.
